Poland existed for centuries as one of the largest states in Europe and at times one of its leading powers. By the 18th century it was in decline. Its territories were parted among the Russian Empire, the Kingdom of Prussia and the Archduchy of Austria. It regained its independence in 1918, a result of World War I. Its capital is Warsaw. Poland was invaded by Germany in September 1939 which resulted in the start of World War II. Poland was liberated by the Soviet Union in 1945 and forced under the rule of Communism until 1989. Poland was also a member of the Warsaw Pact.

Poland is known due to the infamous German concentration camp of Auschwitz.

Modern Poland borders the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad Oblast, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus and Lithuania. It is a member of the European Union. Relations with both Germany and Russia remain tense.